Your guide to the coolest Washington summer ever

Forget the humidity. There’s a heartbreakingly short window to get in all the pool parties, farmers markets, beer gardens and outdoor fun this city provides in the summer — and that’s just the tip of the spiked snow cone. Washington in the summer is a bounty, people. Here are some of the best ways to spend it.

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Splash in a cool blue pool

The time for soaking up the sun and making waves at the neighborhood pool -- or better yet, a splashy waterpark such as Alexandria's Great Waves, Sterling's renovated Volcano Island (pictured) or Southern Maryland's Chesapeake Beach Water Park -- is heartwrenchingly short. So it's best to take advantage of them from the day they open, beginning Memorial Day weekend. D.C. pools open for weekends May 26 (www.dpr.dc.gov) as do Virginia waterparks and pools (www.nvrpa.org) and Maryland pools and Chesapeake Beach Water Park (www.chesapeakebeachwaterpark.com).

See our full list of the region's best pools.

Text by Lavanya Ramanathan / Photo by Lisa Bolton

Pick strawberries

Thanks to the maddeningly indecisive spring weather, berry season has arrived early. Farms are reporting that this sure sign of summer could be gone by mid-June, so make haste to a nearby patch for a taste of sweet, local strawberries. Most farms are charging about $2 a pound.

Find them at your favorite farm or Mackintosh Fruit Farm, 1608 Russell Rd., Berryville. 540-955-2161. www.mackintoshfruitfarm.com. Green Truck Farm, 3015 Hartland Lane, Markham. 540-316-7715. www.greentruckfarms.com. Butler's Orchard, 22200 Davis Mill Rd., Germantown. 301-972-3299. www.butlersorchard.com.

Text by Lavanya Ramanathan and photo by Mark Gail / The Washington Post

Jazz in the Garden

Washingtonians' standing Friday date night is one of summer's simplest pleasures. What, after all, could be better than staking out your own patch of grass under a Joan Miro or a Louise Bourgeois, catching up with friends over a picnic and sangria, and listening to jazz as the sun sets? This year's Jazz in the Garden season will see the return of many favorite performers, including Afro Bop Alliance and Young Lions.

Fridays through Aug. 31, starting May 25, from 5 to 8:30 p.m. at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden, 700 Constitution Ave. NW. 202-289-3360. www.nga.gov/jazz. Free.

Text and photo by Lavanya Ramanathan / The Washington Post

Tubing

When you're tubing down a lazy river, life is simple. The current slowly pulls you along, your toes in the cool water. Ideally, tubing should be done with a group of friends, a cooler of beer or soda (no glass bottles, please) and a passel of dry towels. And if you don't have the gear, check out one of many area outfitters.

Harpers Ferry Adventure Center, 10987 Harpers Ferry Rd., Purcellville. 800-836-9911. www.hfadventurecenter.com. River and Trail Outfitters, 604 Valley Rd., Knoxville, Md. 301-695-5177. www.rivertrail.com. Front Royal Canoe Company, 8567 Stonewall Jackson Hwy., Front Royal. 800-270-8808. www.frontroyalcanoe.com.

Text by Amy Orndorff and photo by J Carrier

As long as the Nats keep winning, <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.washingtonpost.com/gog/misc-locations/nationals-park,1146130.html'>Nationals Park</a> will be an electric place this summer, as the team chases its first playoff appearance since moving to Washington in 2005. Check the scheduled pitchers: Not many baseball fans have a chance to see a potential future Cy Young winner (Stephen Strasburg) and MVP (Bryce Harper) on the same field on a given night. (And before you go, be sure to see our guide to the <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.washingtonpost.com/gog/best-bets/nationals-park,102040.html'>best ballpark eats</a>.) <br>
<br>Nationals Park, 1500 South Capitol St. SE. 202-675-6287. <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.nationals.com'>www.nationals.com</a>. $10-$325.

Root for the Nationals

As long as the Nats keep winning, Nationals Park will be an electric place this summer, as the team chases its first playoff appearance since moving to Washington in 2005. Check the scheduled pitchers: Not many baseball fans have a chance to see a potential future Cy Young winner (Stephen Strasburg) and MVP (Bryce Harper) on the same field on a given night. (And before you go, be sure to see our guide to the best ballpark eats.)

Nationals Park, 1500 South Capitol St. SE. 202-675-6287. www.nationals.com. $10-$325.

Text by Alex Baldinger and photo by Jonathan Newton / The Washington Post

Concerts at Merriweather Post Pavilion

Large concerts don't often make for the most intimate, crowd-friendly experiences. The band members look like ants, the food and bathroom lines are long, and the parking-lot situation can be a major headache. But sitting on the lawn at Merriweather Post Pavilion, surrounded by trees, a beer in hand and listening to one of your favorite bands, can help make up for all that. And with a top-notch schedule boasting such acts as noisy indie rockers Sleigh Bells to country favorites Zac Brown Band, you're bound to find one of yours.

Merriweather Post Pavilion, 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia. 877-435-9849. www.merriweathermusic.com.

Text by Brandon Weigel and photo by Kyle Gustafson/For The Washington Post

Hot yoga takes on a new meaning in the summer months when a number of outdoor classes pop up across town. First up is the annual <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.washingtonpost.com/gog/misc-events/yoga-on-the-mall,1230110.html'>Yoga on the Mall</a>, which is part of D.C. Yoga Week and takes over the Sylvan Theater on May 19. At 6:30 p.m. on Wednesdays, <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.washingtonpost.com/gog/sports-rec-events/yoga-in-the-park,1230141.html'>Dupont Circle becomes an al fresco studio</a>, courtesy of the Logan Circle Lululemon store. And come June, Bikram Yoga Dupont will revive its <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.washingtonpost.com/gog/sports-rec-events/yoga-in-the-park,1230201.html'>weekly classes in Meridian Hill Park</a> (pictured). Walk your downward dog to the grassy northern section at 5 p.m. every Sunday in June, July and August. <br>
<br>Yoga on the Mall, <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://dccy.org/dc-yoga-week'>dccy.org/dc-yoga-week</a>. Lululemon’s yoga classes, <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.lululemon.com/washington/logancircle'>www.lululemon.com/washington/logancircle</a>. Bikram Yoga Dupont, <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.bikramyogadc.com'>www.bikramyogadc.com</a>. All classes are free.

Al fresco yoga

Hot yoga takes on a new meaning in the summer months when a number of outdoor classes pop up across town. First up is the annual Yoga on the Mall, which is part of D.C. Yoga Week and takes over the Sylvan Theater on May 19. At 6:30 p.m. on Wednesdays, Dupont Circle becomes an al fresco studio, courtesy of the Logan Circle Lululemon store. And come June, Bikram Yoga Dupont will revive its weekly classes in Meridian Hill Park (pictured). Walk your downward dog to the grassy northern section at 5 p.m. every Sunday in June, July and August.

Yoga on the Mall, dccy.org/dc-yoga-week. Lululemon’s yoga classes, www.lululemon.com/washington/logancircle. Bikram Yoga Dupont, www.bikramyogadc.com. All classes are free.

Text by Stephanie Merry and photo by Matt McClain / The Washington Post

Artomatic

After a three-year hiatus, the massive unjuried art extravaganza Artomatic returns this weekend, opening in Crystal City for the second time in the festival's 13-year history. And if you think the displays of work by thousands of artists are overwhelming, wait until you see the events calendar. The cultural escapade also promises beer tastings, T-shirt screenprinting demos, jewelry how-tos, the intriguing peculiarity of Zombie Prom Night and countless other entertainment options.

May 18 through June 23. 1851 S. Bell St., Arlington. www.artomatic.org. Free.

Text by Stephanie Merry / Photo by Leah L. Jones/For The Post

Paddle on local waters

Hardier outdoors folk will head out with their kayaks come hail or high water, but the lay paddler's season is now, when warmer (read: wetsuit not required) weather and greenery make hitting the water one of the utmost pleasures of a Washington summer. Try the trendy, newish sport stand-up paddling, or stick to the old favorites -- kayaking and canoeing.

Stand-up paddling rentals: Jack's Boathouse, 3500 K St. NW. 202-337-9642. www.jacksboathouse.com. Paddle DC at Columbia Island Marina, George Washington Parkway. 301-938-3545. www.paddledc.com. Pohick Bay Regional Park, 6501 Pohick Bay Dr., Lorton. 703-339-6104. www.nvrpa.org/park/pohick_bay.
Boat and kayak rentals: Pohick Bay Regional Park; Jack's Boathouse; Black Hills Regional Park, 20920 Lake Ridge Dr., Boyds, Md. 301-528-3466. www.montgomeryparks.org.

Text by Lavanya Ramanathan / Photo by Michael Temchine/For The Post

Last summer, David Guas debuted Louisiana 'sno balls' at his Arlington restaurant, <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.washingtonpost.com/gog/restaurants/bayou-bakery,1178152.html'>Bayou Bakery</a>. The layers of snowlike shaved ice and house-made syrups topped with a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk were more than just a family-friendly, warm-weather favorite; Guas also offered a selection of spiked versions, including a sno ball hurricane. This summer, a number of other restaurants are getting in on the act. <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.washingtonpost.com/gog/restaurants/ps-7s,1127982.html'>PS 7's</a> has already begun serving Hawaii-inspired, rum-based shaved ice treats (pictured), while <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.washingtonpost.com/gog/bars-clubs/jack-rose-dining-saloon,1209257.html'>Jack Rose</a> and <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.washingtonpost.com/gog/bars-clubs/marvin,1144156.html'>Marvin</a> are serving their frozen alcoholic concoctions in the crunchier snow cone style. <br>
<br>Bayou Bakery, 1515 N. Courthouse Rd., Arlington. 703-243-2410. <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.bayoubakeryva.com'>www.bayoubakeryva.com</a>. PS 7's, 777 I St. NW. 202-742-8550. <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.ps7restaurant.com'>www.ps7restaurant.com</a>. Sundays only at Marvin, 2007 14th St. NW. 202-797-7171. <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.marvindc.com'>www.marvindc.com</a>. Jack Rose, 2007 18th St. NW. 202-588-7388. <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.jackrosediningsaloon.com'>www.jackrosediningsaloon.com</a>.

Spiked snow cones

Last summer, David Guas debuted Louisiana "sno balls" at his Arlington restaurant, Bayou Bakery. The layers of snowlike shaved ice and house-made syrups topped with a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk were more than just a family-friendly, warm-weather favorite; Guas also offered a selection of spiked versions, including a sno ball hurricane. This summer, a number of other restaurants are getting in on the act. PS 7's has already begun serving Hawaii-inspired, rum-based shaved ice treats (pictured), while Jack Rose and Marvin are serving their frozen alcoholic concoctions in the crunchier snow cone style.

Bayou Bakery, 1515 N. Courthouse Rd., Arlington. 703-243-2410. www.bayoubakeryva.com. PS 7's, 777 I St. NW. 202-742-8550. www.ps7restaurant.com. Sundays only at Marvin, 2007 14th St. NW. 202-797-7171. www.marvindc.com. Jack Rose, 2007 18th St. NW. 202-588-7388. www.jackrosediningsaloon.com.

Text by Justin Rude and photo by Lavanya Ramanathan / The Washington Post

Farmers markets

If there's a top chef lurking behind your takeout-loving facade, now's the time to let him or her out. The arrival of May meant the return of some of the area's seasonal farmers markets, all offering an entrancing array of produce, plants, meats and treats. Whether you head to 14th and U on Saturdays, Vermont Avenue near the White House on Thursdays or Clarendon on Wednesdays, this is the season to experiment with fresh and unusual ingredients, from kohlrabi to muskmelons.

14th and U, www.marketsandmore.net.Vermont Avenue, www.freshfarmmarket.org. Clarendon, www.clarendon.org.
See a full list of area farmers markets (including details about the Dupont Circle market, pictured).

Text by Stephanie Merry and photo by Ann Cameron Siegal/For the Washington Post

New York Avenue Beach Bar

Every summer, a new bar becomes the hottest destination in town. In 2010, crowds filled the Oktoberfest-style benches at Biergartenhaus. Last year, Standard filled 14th Street's desire for barbecue and beer al fresco. If we had to guess, this year's go-to spot will be the New York Avenue Beach Bar, which is turning a parking lot next to the Warehouse Theater into a full-on vacation, from the cold beers and tropical punches down to 80 tons of sand. Tom Brown, one of the owners of the neighboring bar the Passenger (pictured), is promising luau parties, music and picnic tables in the sand. Look for the grand opening at 5 p.m. on May 25, just in time for Memorial Day weekend.

New York Avenue Beach Bar, 645 New York Ave. NW. 202-656-9229. www.nyavebeachbar.com.

Text by Fritz Hahn and photo by Amanda Voisard

Poolside parties

The simple recipe for a summer blowout: a pool, deck chairs, DJs and a bar. Hotel pool parties have been a fixture on the D.C. scene for the past three summers, but the scene is set for a shakeup: Brightest Young Things is throwing exactly one party a month (the first is June 2), and the Kimpton Hotels' acquisition of the Donovan House probably will put an end to non-guest swimming in the rooftop pool. All is not lost, however: Mother Trucker, a food truck-centric pool party, takes over the Capitol Skyline two Saturdays a month, with DJs, performers and 15 to 20 food vendors; the bottle-service-friendly Adult Swim parties are back at the Skyline on Sundays; and Bethesda's Doubletree Hotel is expanding its rooftop pool parties, offering music and cookouts on Sunday afternoons and Thursday evenings.

Capitol Skyline, 10 I St. SW. Adult Swim, www.dcpoolparty.com. Mother Trucker, www.mothertruckerdc.com. Doubletree by Hilton Bethesda, 8120 Wisconsin Ave., Bethesda. 301-652-2000. www.doubletreebethesda.com.

Text by Fritz Hahn / Photo by Evy Mages/For The Post

Go sailing

You can sail on the Potomac year-round, but it's during the summer that we find ourselves daydreaming at work about catching a breeze. DC Sail, a nonprofit sailing organization based at the Gangplank Marina in Southwest, offers beginner sailing lessons and sailboat rentals on weekend afternoons, as well as group sailing outings on Wednesday evenings (pictured). The monuments seem to glow brighter when glimpsed from the water, and the warming sun and whipping breeze will make you feel like you're miles away from the bustle of the city.

Gangplank Marina, 600 Water St. SW. 202-547-1250. www.dcsail.org.

Text by Fritz Hahn / Photo by Matt McClain/For The Post

Movies under the stars

If you love going to movies but shiver in the icy air-conditioned cineplex, there's no shortage of outdoor movies to enjoy this summer. The area offers many free outdoor film series, each with its own draw: family-friendly movies at Rockville Town Square (June 13 through Aug. 22); apocalyptic thrillers at NoMa Summer Screen (pictured; May 23 through Aug. 8); and election-themed flicks at Rosslyn Outdoor Film Festival (June 8 through Aug. 24). Invite friends and bring a picnic, and you've got a fun, wallet-friendly movie night in the making.

Rockville outdoor movies, www.rockvilletownsquare.com. NoMa Summer Screen, www.nomasummerscreen.com. Rosslyn Outdoor Film Festival, www.rosslynva.org.

See more area outdoor movies.

Text by Jess Righthand / Photo by Sam Kittner

High season for the Maryland crab

Ask any Marylander about their favorite part of summer and blue crabs will invariably come up. Crab season begins in earnest in April, but it peaks in the sultry months of June and July. During those months, Annapolitans split their allegiance between Jimmy Cantler's Riverside Inn and Mike's Crab House, two waterfront restaurants where you can tie up your boat. Our favorite? Mike's, where there's nothing quite like sitting at the picnic tables outside and watching boats sailing past while cracking into a bushel of crabs with all the fixins.

Mike's Crab House, 3030 Riva Rd., Riva, Md. 410-956-2784. www.mikescrabhouse.com.

Text by Fritz Hahn / Photo by Matthew S. Gunby, Associated Press

Your 'lunch meeting' means tee time

If you've ever called in sick to squeeze in a midweek tee time, we won't rat you out. But we will point out that with Washington's long summer days and close-in public courses, you can easily squeeze in a solid nine holes without dipping into your sick leave or faking a dental appointment. You can grab a tee time at East Potomac Golf Course, with its fantastic views of the Washington Monument, as late as 6 p.m. for the nine-hole Red course or 4:40 p.m. if you're set on playing the 18-hole Blue course.

East Potomac Golf Course, 972 Ohio Dr. SW. 202-554-7660. www.golfdc.com.

Text by Alex Baldinger and photo by Bill O'Leary / The Washington Post

Beer gardens

German beers and picnic tables: In the summer, that's the definition of the perfect pairing. Tall, cool glasses of citrusy hefeweizen were practically made for the season, and they're better still at some of the area's beer gardens on lazy weekend afternoons. Find them at the Standard and Biergartenhaus; both open early on Saturdays and Sundays, at noon at the former and 11 a.m. at the latter.

Biergartenhaus, 1355 H St NE. 202-388-4085. www.biergartenhaus.com. Standard, 1801 14th St. NW. www.standarddc.com.

Photo and text by Lavanya Ramanathan / The Washington Post

Upton Hill Regional Park

Public pools: check. Water slides: check. A spray park: check. Baseball and softball batting cages: check. Miniature golf: check. Leisurely hiking trails: check. Picnic grounds: check. Bocce ball pits: check. Multiple playgrounds: check. Upton Hill Regional Park, a naturally wooded urban park straddling Arlington and Fairfax counties, and its Ocean Dunes Waterpark (pictured) hit all the high notes for family summer fun. Avoid the big weekend crowds and take a day off work to give the kids a midweek treat instead.

Upton Hill Regional Park, 6060 Wilson Blvd., Arlington. 703-534-3437. www.oceanduneswaterpark.com. (The water park is closed Mondays-Thursdays until June 16, when it will be open daily.)

Text by Justin Rude and photo by Gerald Martineau / The Washington Post

(Free) music

Lounging on a blanket and listening to live music is a lovely way to spend a summer evening, and there are plenty of free concert series in the area that offer just that. Some of the most popular include old-school funk and R&B at Fort Dupont Park beginning July 14; Wednesday concerts at Strathmore (pictured; June 20-Aug. 15), Friday shows at Herndon's Town Green (through Aug. 24); punk and indie rock at Fort Reno (dates to be announced) and the eclectic lunchtime mix of Live on Woodrow Wilson Plaza (dates to be announced). And, of course, don't miss the four freebie concerts presented by the Going Out Guide at Carter Barron Amphitheatre, starting June 15.

Text by David Malitz / Photo by Margot Schulman

No other experience sums up the phrase 'the patchwork quilt of America' as well as the <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.washingtonpost.com/gog/misc-events/a-capitol-fourth-and-fireworks-on-the-mall,1230142.html'>Mall on the Fourth of July</a>. By the time the fireworks start at 9:10 p.m., you'll be surrounded by people of all backgrounds united in celebration. (Head to the Ellipse to be near the action without the security checkpoints.) During the day, visit large portions of the AIDS Memorial Quilt, which will be displayed as part of the <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.washingtonpost.com/gog/misc-events/smithsonian-folklife-festival,1226985.html'>Smithsonian Folklife Festival</a>. At 8 p.m., the National Symphony Orchestra, Kool & the Gang and Javier Colon, last year's winner of 'The Voice,' will be among the performers in 'A Capitol Fourth' concert, which concludes with the fireworks and Tchaikovsky's '1812 Overture.' <br>
<br>'A Capitol Fourth,' July 4 at 8 p.m. <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.pbs.org/capitolfourth'>www.pbs.org/capitolfourth</a>. Smithsonian Folklife Festival, June 27 through July 1 and July 4-8. <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.festival.si.edu'>www.festival.si.edu</a>.

Fourth of July on the National Mall

No other experience sums up the phrase "the patchwork quilt of America" as well as the Mall on the Fourth of July. By the time the fireworks start at 9:10 p.m., you'll be surrounded by people of all backgrounds united in celebration. (Head to the Ellipse to be near the action without the security checkpoints.) During the day, visit large portions of the AIDS Memorial Quilt, which will be displayed as part of the Smithsonian Folklife Festival. At 8 p.m., the National Symphony Orchestra, Kool & the Gang and Javier Colon, last year's winner of "The Voice," will be among the performers in "A Capitol Fourth" concert, which concludes with the fireworks and Tchaikovsky's "1812 Overture."

"A Capitol Fourth," July 4 at 8 p.m. www.pbs.org/capitolfourth. Smithsonian Folklife Festival, June 27 through July 1 and July 4-8. www.festival.si.edu.

Text by Anne Kenderdine / Photo by Cliff Owen/Associated Press

It's not quite Wimbledon, but it's as close as Washington comes to top-flight tennis. Check out championship team the <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.washingtonpost.com/gog/sports-rec-locations/kastles-stadium-at-the-wharf,1210344.html'>Washington Kastles</a> on the court from July 9-28, with appearances by Serena and Venus Williams (pictured), and the Citi Open (formerly the Legg Mason Tennis Classic) from July 18-Aug. 5. <br>
<br>Kastles Stadium at the Wharf, 800 Water St. SW. 202-483-6647. <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.washingtonkastles.com'>www.washingtonkastles.com</a>. Citi Open, William H.G. FitzGerald Tennis Center, 16th and Kennedy streets NW. 202-721-9500. <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.leggmasontennisclassic.com'>www.leggmasontennisclassic.com</a>.

Tennis stars descend on D.C.

It's not quite Wimbledon, but it's as close as Washington comes to top-flight tennis. Check out championship team the Washington Kastles on the court from July 9-28, with appearances by Serena and Venus Williams (pictured), and the Citi Open (formerly the Legg Mason Tennis Classic) from July 18-Aug. 5.

Kastles Stadium at the Wharf, 800 Water St. SW. 202-483-6647. www.washingtonkastles.com. Citi Open, William H.G. FitzGerald Tennis Center, 16th and Kennedy streets NW. 202-721-9500. www.leggmasontennisclassic.com.

Text by Amy Orndorff / Photo by Matt McClain/For the Post

The good news? The seventh annual onslaught of theater, the <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.washingtonpost.com/gog/performing-arts/capital-fringe-festival,1210334.html'>Capital Fringe Festival</a>, will be occupying Washington in July with 134 productions at 20 venues across the city. The better news? This year, there will be more air-conditioned venues, including Caos on F and Gala Hispanic Theatre. The even better news? A number of Fringe favorites are set to return, including the musically inclined Dizzy Miss Lizzie's Roadside Revue, which will present 'The Brontes,' and last year's director's award winner Izumi Ashizawa Performance with 'Dreams in the Arms of the Binding Lady.' <br>
<br>Capital Fringe Festival, July 12-29. Various locations. Tickets go on sale June 18. <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.capfringe.org'>www.capfringe.org</a>. $17; required button, $5.

Capital Fringe Festival

The good news? The seventh annual onslaught of theater, the Capital Fringe Festival, will be occupying Washington in July with 134 productions at 20 venues across the city. The better news? This year, there will be more air-conditioned venues, including Caos on F and Gala Hispanic Theatre. The even better news? A number of Fringe favorites are set to return, including the musically inclined Dizzy Miss Lizzie's Roadside Revue, which will present "The Brontes," and last year's director's award winner Izumi Ashizawa Performance with "Dreams in the Arms of the Binding Lady."

Capital Fringe Festival, July 12-29. Various locations. Tickets go on sale June 18. www.capfringe.org. $17; required button, $5.

Text by Stephanie Merry and photo by Michael S. Williamson / The Washington Post

Summer musicals

The success of Fringe handily proved two things. First, there are theater audiences to be had in the summer. Second, those audiences want to have fun. Behold: The lighthearted summer season, filling the doldrums with a roller-skating "Xanadu" at Signature Theatre (pictured); a populist musical about a rugged former president, "Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson," at Studio's 2ndStage; and for better or for worse, Broadway's take on the deadpan TV comedy "The Addams Family," at the Kennedy Center.

"Xanadu," through July 1 at Signature Theatre, 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington. 703-820-9771. www.signature-theatre.org. "Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson," July 11-Aug. 5 at Studio Theatre, 1501 14th St. NW. 202-332-3300. www.studiotheatre.org. "The Addams Family," July 10-29 at the Kennedy Center, 2700 F St. NW. 202-467-4600. www.kennedy-center.org.

Text by Lavanya Ramanathan / Photo by Scott Suchman

After a two-year absence, the Tiger Woods Foundation's <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.washingtonpost.com/gog/sports-rec-events/at-and-t-national,1230462.html'>AT&T National</a> tournament (pictured) is returning to Congressional Country Club. It's hard to beat strolling alongside the immaculately manicured fairways or posting up under a tree in putting distance of some of the best golfers in the world. AT&T National, June 26-July 1. Congressional Country Club, 8500 River Rd., Bethesda. <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://web.tigerwoodsfoundation.org/events/attNational/index'>www.attnational.org</a>. 800-594-8499.

Golf stars play in our backyard

After a two-year absence, the Tiger Woods Foundation's AT&T National tournament (pictured) is returning to Congressional Country Club. It's hard to beat strolling alongside the immaculately manicured fairways or posting up under a tree in putting distance of some of the best golfers in the world. AT&T National, June 26-July 1. Congressional Country Club, 8500 River Rd., Bethesda. www.attnational.org. 800-594-8499.

Text by Brandon Weigel and photo by Tracy A. Woodward / The Washington Post

DC Jazz Festival

June's DC Jazz Festival is one of the most highly anticipated music events of the year, with hundreds of performances across the city. Besides the big-name concerts at the Kennedy Center and Howard Theatre (where Diane Reeves, pictured, performs June 3), don't miss the Family Fun Days at the Phillips Collection, the Jazz Loft series featuring up-and-coming local artists and the first concert series at the Hamilton.

DC Jazz Festival, June 1-10. Various locations. www.dcjazzfest.org.

Text by Jess Righthand, The Washington Post / Photo by Josh Sisk for The Post

Parks with trains and carousels

How is it that every year the Washington summer still surprises us with its heat and humidity? Try the relatively cool shade of Cabin John Park (pictured) and Wheaton Regional Park and their miniature trains (that, yes, parents can enjoy, too). Wheaton kicked off its summer schedule May 1, and Cabin John opens full time June 1. Watkins Regional Park’s train is open Thursday-Sunday until May 26, when its extended summer hours begin. A bonus: Wheaton recently opened an adventure playground for all ages, and Watkins Park offers a slew of farm animals to visit. Take that in along with a carousel ride to while away the lazy summer days.

Cabin John Regional Park, 7400 Tuckerman Lane, Rockville. 301-765-8670. www.montgomeryparks.org. Wheaton Regional Park, 2002 Shorefield Rd., Wheaton. 301-942-6703. www.montgomeryparks.org. Watkins Regional Park, Watkins Regional Park, 301 Watkins Park Dr., Upper Marlboro. 301-218-6700. www.pgparks.com/Things_To_Do/Nature/Watkins_Regional_Park.htm.

Text by Amy Joyce / Photo by Juana Arias/For The Post

Rickey Month

Few cocktails quench a summer thirst as well as the rickey, D.C.'s official cocktail, celebrated at bars across the city in July, a.k.a. Rickey Month. You can enjoy the bracing mix of gin or bourbon with soda water and fresh-squeezed lime juice in an air-conditioned room (like 1331 bar and lounge, pictured, where a plaque marks the rickey's creation), but it's best sipped on the shaded patio at Room 11 or on Jack Rose's rooftop deck. By the time you've reached the bottom of the glass, you're primed for the next one.

Jack Rose, 2007 18th St. NW. 202-588-7388. www.jackrosediningsaloon.com. Room 11, 3234 11th St. NW. 202-332-3234. www.room11dc.com.

Text by Fritz Hahn / Photo by Rebecca D'Angelo/For The Post

Trips to the beach...

One of the glories of summer is taking Friday off, jumping in the car and lighting out for the Eastern Shore first thing in the morning. While the poor saps heading the other way on Route 50 look forward to a day of cubicles and conference calls, your heart begins to sing as the Bay Bridge comes into view. By lunchtime, you'll be dipping your feet in the sand and salt water.

Text by Fritz Hahn and photo by Amanda Voisard

...And trips to the country

Wait until August, when all the festivals wrap for the season, and zip down to the cooler clime of the wine country around Charlottesville, a little more than two hours' drive from the District. Although vineyard-hopping on the Monticello wine trail is a popular reason to visit, there are newer attractions: breweries that grow their hops on site and serving up tasty local fare. Two to visit: Blue Mountain Brewery in Afton (pictured) and Devils Backbone in nearby Roseland. Don't miss: an early visit to Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park. See our complete guide to this brewery and winery excursion.

Monticello Wine Trail, www.monticellowinetrail.org. Blue Mountain Brewery, 9519 Critzers Shop Rd., Afton, Va. 540-456-8020. www.bluemountainbrewery.com. Devils Backbone Brewing, 200 Mosbys Run, Roseland, Va. 434-361-1001. www.dbbrewingcompany.com.

Text by Lavanya Ramanathan / Photo by Astrid Riecken/For The Post

What's scary and fun and green all over? <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.washingtonpost.com/gog/misc-locations/adventure-park-at-sandy-spring-friends-school,1212325.html'>Sandy Spring Adventure Park</a>, where you can walk a tightrope, teeter across a log bridge or zip-line from treetop to treetop on the lush campus in Sandy Spring. More than a dozen courses let you test your inner daredevil, from a purple course that even a 5-year-old can attempt to a double-black diamond adventure that will have you walking more than 60 feet in the air. Gulp! <br>
<br>Sandy Spring Adventure Park, 16701 Norwood Rd., Sandy Spring. 240-389-4386.<a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.sandyspringadventurepark.org'>www.sandyspringadventurepark.org</a>.

Sandy Spring Adventure Park

What's scary and fun and green all over? Sandy Spring Adventure Park, where you can walk a tightrope, teeter across a log bridge or zip-line from treetop to treetop on the lush campus in Sandy Spring. More than a dozen courses let you test your inner daredevil, from a purple course that even a 5-year-old can attempt to a double-black diamond adventure that will have you walking more than 60 feet in the air. Gulp!

Sandy Spring Adventure Park, 16701 Norwood Rd., Sandy Spring. 240-389-4386.www.sandyspringadventurepark.org.

Text by Deb Leithauser / Photo by Xiaomei Chen/For The Post

Gourmet ice-cream sandwiches

No longer can Washingtonians be accused of being too vanilla, not when the past few summers have honed this city's palate for sea-salt gelato and cantaloupe sorbet. This year, our ice cream of choice arrives with a side of nostalgia, as restaurants are reviving the classic ice cream sandwich. Find waffle cookies with bacon-maple ice cream or lavender spongecake with local strawberry ice cream at the new sweet shop Sugar Magnolia in Cleveland Park (which carries gluten-free varieties, too); hit the "chipwich truck" Scoops 2U, which delivers ice cream between simple chocolate-chip cookies; or indulge in a s'mores-inspired, gold-leaf-topped incarnation at Cafe Dupont and Bar Dupont.

Sugar Magnolia, 3417 Connecticut Ave. NW. 202-244-7995. Scoops 2U, on Twitter at @scoops2U. Cafe Dupont, 1500 New Hampshire Ave. NW. 202-483-6000. www.doylecollection.com.

Text and photo by Lavanya Ramanathan

See emerging art

The last day of school signals the beginning of the summer exhibition season for area art school grads, many of whom are putting their work in front of the public for the first time. At the University of Maryland, for example, you can catch the untested thesis projects of newly minted MFAs. For a more curated showcase, check out Conner Contemporary's annual "Academy" showcase (pictured in 2011), which rounds up the best of the class of 2012 from across the Baltimore-Washington region. Both shows are free.

"2012 MFA Thesis Exhibition," through May 25 at UMD's Art Gallery, 2202 Art-Sociology Building on the College Park campus. www.artgallery.umd.edu. "Academy 2012," July 7-Aug. 18 at Conner Contemporary, 1358 Florida Ave. NE. www.connercontemporary.com.

Text by Michael O'Sullivan / Rebecca D'Angelo/For The Washington Post

Nothing beats being near the water on a hot summer day, and <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.washingtonpost.com/gog/misc-locations/the-yards-park,1172934.html'>the Yards Park</a> is perched on some of the city's best waterfront real estate. Cool off with already-in-full-swing concerts every Friday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. through Sept. 14, with food and drink provided by the Red Apron Butchery, Buzz Bakery, ChurchKey and a rotating cast of food trucks. <br>
<br>The Yards Park, Third and Water streets SE. <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.yardspark.org'>www.yardspark.org</a>.

The Yards Park concerts

Nothing beats being near the water on a hot summer day, and the Yards Park is perched on some of the city's best waterfront real estate. Cool off with already-in-full-swing concerts every Friday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. through Sept. 14, with food and drink provided by the Red Apron Butchery, Buzz Bakery, ChurchKey and a rotating cast of food trucks.

The Yards Park, Third and Water streets SE. www.yardspark.org.

Text by Alex Baldinger/Photo by Capitol Riverfront Business Improvement District

Twilight Polo

If there's another sport that combines a classy atmosphere (think: picnics, sundresses and wine) with the bone-crushing intensity of polo, we're not aware of it. Twilight Polo brings matches to the masses every Saturday night in the summer, featuring top-tier competition and low admission. Never fear if you've never seen the sport of kings. The rules are simple, and most point wins and penalties are explained by the announcer.

Twilight Polo, Saturdays at 7 p.m. through Sept. 8. Great Meadow, 5089 Old Tavern Rd., The Plains. 540-253-5000. www.greatmeadow.org. $30 per carload.

Text by Amy Orndorff / Photo by Dayna Smith/For The Post

Light up the grill

Not all Washingtonians are lucky enough to have their own grill ready to fire up at a moment's notice. Apartment dwellers often need to seek common ground before setting match to briquette, and one of the area's best communal grill grounds is Rock Creek Park. Most of its grills operate on a first-come, first-served basis for groups of 25 or less. If you want to nab one ahead of time (or are expecting up to 75 guests), you can reserve one of the park's picnic groves by visiting the D.C. Department of Public Works Permits Office (1250 U St. NW. 202-671-2597). An urban alternative is Helix Lounge's Backyard Bash, where from 5 to 7 p.m. on Wednesdays, the lounge fires up the grill for a bit of a communal cookout (pictured). $7 gets you a beef, chicken, turkey or veggie burger, chips and fixins. To pair your grilled meat with views, head for Clarendon's Eventide, where the first Sunday of each will feature an afternoon rooftop BBQ (Beer, Bourbon and 'Que), with a chance to eat grub and bourbon tastings for $30.

Helix Lounge, 1430 Rhode Island Ave. NW. 202-462-9001. www.hotelhelix.com. Eventide, 3165 Wilson Blvd., Arlington. 703-276-3165. www.eventiderestaurant.com.

Text by Alex Baldinger and photo by Lavanya Ramanathan / The Washington Post

County fair season

Some folks crash-diet before bikini season. Others have been fasting all winter in anticipation of the late-summer onslaught of state- and county-fair food, which elevates deep frying to an art form. One of the earliest fairs (as well as one of the easiest to get to) is Arlington County's (pictured).

Aug. 8-12 at the Thomas Jefferson Community Center, 3501 S. Second St., Arlington. www.arlingtoncountyfair.us. Admission is free; food and rides are sold separately.

Text by Michael O'Sullivan and photo by Melina Mara / The Washington Post

<a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.washingtonpost.com/gog/misc-locations/balls-bluff-regional-park,1025174.html'>Ball's Bluff</a> was the site of an oft-forgotten Civil War battle in October 1861 that proved costly for Union forces. Today, the site is a state park about three miles northeast of downtown Leesburg that offers hiking trails with sweeping views of the Potomac River in addition to interpretive displays about the battle. It's worth a trip if you'd like to learn about local history, enjoy a respite from the city or both. <br>
<br>Balls Bluff Regional Park, off Battlefield Parkway on Ball’s Bluff Road, Leesburg. 703-737-7800. <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.nvrpa.org'>www.nvpra.org</a>.

Hike on historic ground

Ball's Bluff was the site of an oft-forgotten Civil War battle in October 1861 that proved costly for Union forces. Today, the site is a state park about three miles northeast of downtown Leesburg that offers hiking trails with sweeping views of the Potomac River in addition to interpretive displays about the battle. It's worth a trip if you'd like to learn about local history, enjoy a respite from the city or both.

Balls Bluff Regional Park, off Battlefield Parkway on Ball’s Bluff Road, Leesburg. 703-737-7800. www.nvpra.org.

Text by Brandon Weigel and photo by Katherine Frey/The Washington Post

The Washington area's biggest professional cycling event, the <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.washingtonpost.com/gog/misc-events/the-air-force-cycling-classic,1230509.html'>Air Force Cycling Classic</a>, is a summer tradition, transforming Clarendon's pedestrian-friendly retail and dining corridor into a breakneck, five-turn, one-kilometer proving ground for some of the world's best riders. If you get there early enough, you can score a course-side seat at one of the many neighborhood restaurants, including 3 Bar and Grill, Lyon Hall or Pete's Apizza. Best of all, you can join in the fun: Besides the pro races, the two-day event features children's and amateur races and a non-competitive ride in Crystal City.<br>
<br>Air Force Cycling Classic, June 9-10, Wilson Boulevard and Highland Street, Arlington. <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.airforcecyclingclassic.com'>www.airforcecyclingclassic.com</a>.

Clarendon becomes a thrilling cycling scene

The Washington area's biggest professional cycling event, the Air Force Cycling Classic, is a summer tradition, transforming Clarendon's pedestrian-friendly retail and dining corridor into a breakneck, five-turn, one-kilometer proving ground for some of the world's best riders. If you get there early enough, you can score a course-side seat at one of the many neighborhood restaurants, including 3 Bar and Grill, Lyon Hall or Pete's Apizza. Best of all, you can join in the fun: Besides the pro races, the two-day event features children's and amateur races and a non-competitive ride in Crystal City.

Air Force Cycling Classic, June 9-10, Wilson Boulevard and Highland Street, Arlington. www.airforcecyclingclassic.com.

Text by Justin Rude / Photo by The Post

Neighborhood festivals

The end of the summer can feel like a major drag. Sure, there's the inevitable arrival of the county fairs. But between fried candy bars and 4-H displays, they can get rather routine. Enter the D.C. neighborhood festivals, which add a much-needed hit of spice and funk to the late summer and early fall. Adams Morgan Day, H Street Festival, and Columbia Heights Day, the District's answer to the state fair, get going at the beginning of fall (many dates to be announced).

Text by Justin Rude/Photo by Sergio Herrera

See more from the <a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.goingoutguide.com'>Going Out Guide</a>:<br>
<a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.washingtonpost.com/gog/best-bets/dining-guide/dining-guide-spring-2012,102675.html'>Tom Sietsema’s Spring 2012 Dining Guide</a>
<br>
<a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.washingtonpost.com/goingoutguide/the-areas-most-romantic-places/2012/02/01/gIQAh5bfkQ_gallery.html#photo=1'>Washington's Most Romantic Places</a>
<br>
<a data-xslt='_http' href='http://www.washingtonpost.com/goingoutguide/this-presidents-day-eat-like-the-obamas/2012/02/10/gIQAVJHCGR_gallery.html'>Eat Like the Obamas</a>

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